Over the years, coconut oil has had a bad rap, but studies are now finding it has great health benefits and is a wonderful substitute for other oils in your cooking and baking.

Because it tolerates high temperatures, coconut oil is a great substitute for shortening, butter, margarine, or vegetable oil. I find that when I bake with it, the resulting muffins, scones, or cakes have a special lightness to them and a slightly sweet fragrance unique to coconut oil. Now it's time to get in the kitchen; here is a quick glimpse into some wonderful recipes we're quite fond of (or excited to try):